<Midday Update> HSI Ends Midday at 26,397, Gaining 238 Points; HSTI Reaches 6,301, Up 134 Points; BABA Rises Over 6%; BABA, SMIC, HUA HONG SEMI, CHINA FOODS, and YUEXIUTRANSPORT Achieve New Highs

Citi Research maintained a "Buy" rating for HKEX despite slightly lowering its FY2025-2027 EPS forecasts by 1%. This adjustment was primarily due to a reduced average daily turnover forecast for Hong Kong stocks, which was lowered by 1-3%. Consequently, the target price for HKEX was also reduced from $515 to $505.

The analyst rating from HSBC Global Research for HKEX is based on the belief that the acquisition of a 20% stake in CMU OmniClear Holdings for $455 million is a positive move for the company. They noted that while the transaction will have a limited short-term financial impact, the commercialization of CMU OmniClear could provide upside potential. Additionally, HKEX's history of driving market development through financial infrastructure enhancements suggests a promising growth potential for its financial innovation center business. As a result, HSBC maintained a "Buy" rating with a target price of $530.

DBS Research has issued a Buy rating on HKEX due to several positive factors: strong momentum in the Hong Kong bourse, improved liquidity and investment sentiment, attractive valuations of Hong Kong tech stocks compared to other markets, and supportive government policies and stimulus measures. They have also raised their average daily turnover forecast for HKEX, indicating confidence in the market's performance. The target price remains at HKD540.